South Dakota senators vote in support of border barrier

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) – South Dakota senators have passed a resolution urging construction of a steel barrier at the southern border as the government shutdown drags on.

The Republican-dominated chamber voted 28-5 Thursday for the measure. Republican Sen. Stace Nelson, the main sponsor, says South Dakota has a chance to be part of the national discussion over President Donald Trump’s border wall.

Democratic Sen. Craig Kennedy, an opponent, called the measure “pure politics.” The measure is symbolic.

Trump and congressional Democrats have been at an impasse over funding for the proposed wall, which has led to a partial government shutdown now in its 20th day.